Wedded Bliss...

This past weekend (Saturday, to be exact) I set out at 10am to meet my friend, Gina, who asked me to be a second shooter/assistant for a wedding she had booked. This photographer/friend of mine is also someone whose work and unique style I really admire. You can view her work, which is quite varied and is definitely not only about weddings here>> Gina Hanf-Life Photography

I knew it would be a long day but I also knew a few key points that made it easier:

-I was definitely going to learn something different from working with her.
-It would definitely be a unique experience (having never shot a wedding with her and never photographed a wedding in Delaware, this was a guarantee)
-I knew she would get some amazing photos that I would be able to gain something from
-We would have fun!


Initially we estimated that the drive would take around an hour and a half but we were wrong. We ended up having to drive about 2 1/2 hours (she drove, thank God!) to get to the wedding venue, which was a really nice golf club located in Delaware, not too far from the major Delaware beaches. It rained (at times, poured) the entire way there and most of the trip back. Definitely an adventure...if nothing else, my endless chattering probably helped keep her awake for the drive. I tend to talk a lot (or not at all ) before a big shooting event, depending upon my level of energy and anxiety. Poor her, having to listen to me for 2 1/2 hours each way!

I did learn a lot and actually had a really good time. The bride and groom were great and the bridal party was a real treat to spend time around. They were actually hysterically funny. The bride and groom's family and guests were also great and everyone really seemed to enjoy themselves and cut loose a bit. The venue was really pretty and the service at the venue was incredible. We dealt with rain sporadically throughout the day and had to squeeze pictures in between intermittent showers. At one point during bride and groom photos it started to sprinkle again and we were away from the reception venue at a small bridge overlooking the golf course. Before we could even decide what to do, the planner pulled up in a golf cart to transport us safely back to the club. Really, the service was terrific.

Gina was very organized, definitely had a plan and did a fabulous job. I was honored to be working with her and appreciated being asked. It was a great experience.  I love putting myself in situations where I am going to learn in a different environment and out of my comfort zone. It is worth the discomfort to come away with something interesting to add to my bag of tricks. I can't wait to see some of the results of this wedding.
  
Thank you, Gina! I would work with you again any time!